When No One Sees

The Importance of Character in an Age of Image

By Edited by Os Guinness with Virginia Mooney
(1992)

In a day when public life is a searching crucible for personal character, this topic is one that crisscrosses both biblical and classical discussions in ways that are burningly practical in contemporary society. The “character issue” was largely ignored in the public life of the past generation, but a mounting series of crises and scandals has forcefully reminded Western society of its proper, central place.

When No One Sees offers a series of readings that help us explore, in very practical ways for each level of society, the issues that surround character—the reality of the core of our being, who and what we are when no one else sees. Few issues in our time are more important for individuals and society; few Christian contributions are more decisive and timely; few subjects are more searching for each one of us. 

In the opening session, we trace the theme of character throughout Western history—from Plato and Aristotle to the present—focusing on the reasons character is an essential ingredient of good leadership and a just society. In the second session we examine the role of personal crises as tests of character, inevitable moments of truth that reveal who we are at the deepest and most foundational levels. The third session exposes several of the underlying forces of modern society that daily shape our lives and threaten to erode our character. Session Four turns to spiritual concepts, habits of mind and action, that have proven to be revolutionary and practical antidotes to the widespread modern erosion of character. In the final session, we celebrate real-life heroes who motivate us to work and grow to reach new heights of excellence and integrity.

Available as a paperback or a binder.

Category: Curricula (No. 2)